Executive Chef Mitchell Altholz Named To "Best Chefs America" List for 2014West Orange Dining Destination's Executive Chef Named Among the Nation's Best Chefs

West Orange Dining Destination's Executive Chef Named Among the Nation's Best Chefs

(West Orange, NJ: February 28, 2013) – For the second year in a row, "Best Chefs America" has confirmed Highlawn Pavilion's Executive Chef, Mitchell Altholz, as a "Best Chef." According to "Best Chefs America," this recognition for 2014 places him again in their category of the top 1% of chefs cooking in America today.

"Best Chefs America" is a peer reviewed guide of U.S. chefs, who were chosen after extensive interviews between their fellow chefs and Best Chefs America analysts. Its namesake publication is compiled by a comprehensive process of interviewing chefs across the country. Chefs are nominated for participation by fellow chefs, other culinary professionals, and food enthusiasts. Chef Altholz was initially included in the publication's debut in 2013.

More About Executive Chef Mitchell Altholz

Chef Altholz’s New York credits include Sous Chef at Maxim’s from 1985 – 1989, where he had the honor of working with many renowned guest chefs including Jacques Pépin and Mitchell Rostang. From there, his talents took him to St. Thomas where he worked as Executive Chef at The Inn at Mandahi.

After his years in France, Chef Altholz his wife Jocelyne opened an intimate nine-table restaurant in Maplewood, aptly named “Jocelyne” on Valentine’s Day, 1998. Their skills earned three stars from New Jersey Monthly, an “Excellent” from The New York Times, four stars from The Star Ledger, a Zagat rating of 27 for food and a DiRoNA (Distinguished Restaurants of North America) Award, before selling the business in 2005.

Mitchell joined Highlawn Pavilion in 2005 and, in addition to creating a culinary buzz, has garnered an “Excellent” rating from The New York Times, four stars from The Star-Ledger, a Top Restaurant award from New Jersey Monthly and has been chosen to lead a handful of dinners at The James Beard House in New York City.

About Highlawn Pavilion

Located atop Eagle Rock Reservation in West Orange, NJ, Highlawn Pavilion’s striking view of Manhattan is only the beginning of an extraordinary dining experience. The impressive grand vistas are matched by its unique brand of American fare with French infusion. Culinary treasures are prepared in its striking exhibition kitchen, which caps the restaurant’s stunning décor.

Highlawn Pavilion’s French rotisserie, wood-burning Italian brick oven and char-grill are put to good use to serve both the main dining room as well as the romantic Piano Room with its lively bar and candle-lit tables. Live jazz music is featured Wednesday through Friday, while outdoor dining (lunch and dinner) on the patio overlook, is offered during the warm weather months. With its European design landscaping and patio umbrellas, the setting is truly reminiscent of continental relaxation.